Life&Style magazine reports, “There were contract issues, but Aug. 31 was always the start date, with or without a contract,” says an insider.

Their insider also insists their salaries was not an issue, “The ladies wanted more money, and they’re getting it.” The insider continues, “Bravo was happy to up their pay since the show makes more money now. The Housewives just had an issue with some of the wording in the contract.”

According to Life&Style, Bethenny Frankel is still in talks with Bravo to get her own reality show, and might be leaving the NY Housewives after this season.

We also reported some nasty comments Bethenny recently made about castmate, Jill Zarin, so this 3rd season will definitely have some drama.